[Mark J Hornbacher]

Are you aware of new ways to be of service to them now?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

That’s a powerful testimony, Parker. It speaks to me of the great love and power of God. As the Holy Spirit leads, keep telling it!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Kevin, I think you may be right. This brings out well the fact included in the note after the situations.

the question is not, “what do you say in response?”, but “what do you do to respond?”

Perhaps situation 2 calls just for entering into regular prayer for the man and his girlfriend. A rosary a week or something, and then being ready to be of assistance as you talk to him going forward.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Situation #1 happened to me. It was heart-rending. I couldn’t help but weep with her.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

You’re welcome! We’ll be praying for you. Let us know how things go!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Do what seems best to you. But if you want my opinion, then I say to pray, and after some time, reach out to him, to see how he’s been doing with the family situation. And primarily just listen and sympathize. Don’t mention the book and medal, at least right away. See if he brings it up first. Maybe if he doesn’t mention it after a while, just say something like you’re glad he appreciated the book and medal, and that you hope it will be helpful.

The reason I like to approach people this way is that I want to show them especially that it is them that I care about, genuinely — not “getting a convert” or having my book recommendations or gifts be the thing that changes their life. I want them to be well.

All that being said, you know him, and I don’t. Do what seems best to you.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Those are some great ideas on the spiritual side, Sami G!

Somethings I would add, more on the emotional needs side, is that I think is important with people struggling with mental health issues is to show sympathy and empathy. Tell them that you’re really sorry that they are going through these things, that it must be terrible, etc.

Also, asking about and encouraging people to have good mental health counseling or therapy is important.

thanks for your post and participation in this course!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Good kerygma! Who did you share it with?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Did you find out when that coworker’s birthday is?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Great, Sami! Let us know if there are any developments on that going forward, after you check in with her next.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Woah! Praise the Lord! Angels in heaven are rejoicing.

Please let us know how things develop later on.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Wonderful! Keep us posted!

[Mark J Hornbacher]

Great, Jacob! You say your friend seemed open and responsive. Did he say anything in response to it?

[Mark J Hornbacher]

You’re right. That’s a big problem. We can’t overcome it on our own. Prayer and trust are the only way forward.

[Mark J Hornbacher]

In some respects, Jacob, it is more difficult to share the gospel with relatives and friends, than it is to share it with strangers. Remember, Our Lord said, “A prophet is not accepted in his hometown….” Friends and relatives know us, and they know (or think they know) our faults and weaknesses. This provides them easy fodder to excuse themselves from listening.

[Author]

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